Chesapeake Bay

The
Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) strives to achieve a balance
between development and protection of the Chesapeake Bay through a number of
coordinated programs and activities geared towards accomplishing the goals
of the New Bay Agreement of 2000. The New Bay Agreement established a
long-term strategy for restoration of the Bay and its tributaries. Our
success in restoration and protection relies on partnerships and
collaboration of citizens, businesses, non-profits, and all levels of
government.

The following is just a sampling of DNR programs and activities working
towards restoration and protection. More information on these programs and
others can be found throughout the DNR website.

In 1978, Marylandís Coastal Program was
enacted as a means to facilitate proper management of coastal resources
among federal, state, and local authorities, and interested stakeholders.
Activities of the stateís Coastal Program include shoreline erosion
control, watershed restoration, nonpoint source management, and ensuring
public access to coastal areas.

Marylandís Tributary Teams are comprised
of stakeholders who work together towards reducing localized pollution
within 10 key Bay tributaries and watershed areas.

Students do their part to restore the Bay
by participating in Bay Grasses in Classes, a program where students grow
bay grasses in their classrooms to be transplanted into the Bay to help
restore aquatic habitat and improve water quality.

The Greenways and Blueways Commission
attempts to preserve a network of natural corridors connecting open spaces
throughout Maryland.

Your actions can help preserve your Bay
for generations to come. Whether it is volunteering for a local stream
clean-up project or reducing the fertilizers you use on your lawn, you can
make a difference and help DNR manage our precious natural resources and
maintain a clean, healthy Chesapeake Bay for everyone to enjoy.